Originally published March 1, 2016 on autoTRADER.ca
This morning at the Geneva International Motor Show, Maserati introduced their first ever SUV. The all new Levante, named for a warm Mediterranean wind. This is going to be a performance-style SUV, closer in target to a Porsche Cayenne than a Land Rover.
The Levante will be available with a pair of 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engines, producing 345 hp in the base trim or 424 hp in the ‘S’. Both come equipped with Maserati’s Q4 all-wheel drive system and a mechanically locking rear differential. The Levante S will do 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds on the way to a top speed of 266 km/h. The base model will reach 100 km/h in a still impressive 5.9 seconds.
Underneath, the suspension is double wishbones in the front and multi-link in the rear. With Maserati’s Skyhook electronically controlled dampers, air springs all around, and six position adjustable ride height. Maserati claims a class leading low center of gravity for improved handling and performance.
Inside, Maserati is providing a high level of luxury, including available premium leather and silk . There is also an 8.4-inch touch screen with a redundant rotary control knob in the center console. Driver assistance features include stop/start, forward collision warning, brake assist, lane departure warning, park assist, and surround view cameras. Interior personalization choices will be optional as well.
The 2017 Maserati Levante is expected to be available in dealers this summer, with Canadian pricing not yet available.
You can see our first peek at the Maserati Levante here.
